History Through Headstones tour

Learn about the history of Albany through the historic headstones at the Waverly Jewish and Houston Cemeteries. Tour is from 7 pm-dusk at Waverly Jewish Cemetery and Houston Cemetery, both on Old Salem Road across from Waverly Lake.

At the Waverly Jewish Cemetery, docents will talk about the lives of Pauline Kline, the Brenner Family, and Albany physician Dr. Carl Yaillen. In addition, guests can also learn about ongoing cemetery preservation work.

On the Houston Cemetery side, docents will talk about the Anderson Cox donation land claim as well as several members of the Houston Family, all farmers who donated land for the cemeteries, as well as land for Houston School and the Albany Airport

Those wanting to take the tour can park in the Waverly Park lot next to Waverly Lake and walk to the Houston Cemetery. Or parking is available at the Waverly Cemetery with access to the adjacent Jewish cemetery.

A third option is to ride the Albany Visitors Association streetcar to the cemeteries that will leave the museum parking lot, 136 Lyon St. S., at 6:45, 7:30 and 8:15 p.m. The streetcar will return twice to the museum. While on board the streetcar Museum docent Bill Maddy will discuss the history, development, and names associated with the Hackleman District of Albany’s east side.

The tours are free of charge.

Tour may travel over uneven terrain, be prepared for warm summer weather, and changing weather conditions.